The farm map is a resource for people who want to explore island farms and source local food. The map allows users to search interactively on a range of farm products and topics. Map users can locate fresh produce of every kind: fruits, vegetables, herbs, nuts, grains, eggs, dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, seafood, wine, and specialty foods like edible oils or fresh-milled flour.

In addition, people can use the map to locate CSA weekly farm box programs, farm stands, as well as agritourism attractions like wine tastings, farm restaurants, workshops, events and overnight farm stays.

2. Vancouver Island Farms A-Z Directory

The Vancouver Island Farms A-Z Directory (above) is an alphabetical listing of farms on Vancouver Island and Salt Spring Island. People can look up farms by name and click through to the farm profile to see products and contact information. Farms are grouped alphabetically within several regions: Victoria, Saanich Peninsula, Metchosin to Sooke, Cowichan Valley/Cobble Hill, Salt Spring Island, Ladysmith, Nanaimo & Gabriola, Parksville/Qualicum, and Mid Island Farms.

3. Guide to Farmers Markets

The Guide to Farmers Markets is a directory to farmers markets on Vancouver Island, Salt Spring Island, Gabriola Island and Denman Island. This at-a-glance guide gives the locations and market days for markets thoughout the islands.

Vancouver Island Farmers are Expanding the Boundaries of Local Foods

Island farmers produce a wide range of fresh, regional foods, including unique heirloom vegetables and fruits. As interest grows, island farmers are pushing the boundaries of what is considered “local.” Foods such as citrus and other Mediterranean fruit, bison,dried beans,traditional and alternative grains, once regarded as out-of-region subtropical or prairie-raised foods, are now finding a place in south coast British Columbia.

Producers are also promoting the foods, such as local spirits, wines, island-grown tea, and sea salt, that celebrate the unique terroir of Vancouver Island and British Columbia.